This slide is a special neurological
preparation. Note that the differentiation between
white
and
gray matter
is accentuated with this staining,
technique. Compare the features seen with the routine (H&E)
stained section of
Slide
3
with those found in this slide (in this preparation
axons and dendrites
are stained dark brown or black). Find the
dorsal root ganglion
.

This slide shows a different
staining technique. The same histologic features present in
Slide 9
can
be studied. For reinforcement, again find the
layers of the cerebellar cortex
,
Purkinje cells
, and
granule cells
. In addition, note that the Purkinje
cells are surrounded by a
"basket" of axons
(axons and dendrites
stain black in this slide). These axons contact the Purkinje
cells forming axosomatic synapses.

Observe
neuron cell bodies
and
satellite cells
in this autonomic (sympathetic)
ganglion. Note that the cells appear to be ovoid and slightly
angular in shape. Even though these are autonomic (multipolar,
motor) neurons, the smallness of their dendrites and the layer
of surrounding
satellite
cells
obscures the angular nature of the neurons. Many of
the
nuclei
of the neurons tend to be located in an eccentric position. The
nerve cell bodies are randomly scattered throughout the ganglionic
mass, and the bundles of
nerve cell processes
are arranged irregularly
rather than in discrete bundles.

Find one or more small,
parasympathetic ganglia
located within the
connective tissue of the gland. One to several
neuron cell bodies
may be present in these
small ganglia. Note the similarity to the celiac ganglion. Parasympathetic
ganglia are often located near or within the organ that they
innervate. Therefore, the post-synaptic (post-ganglionic) efferent
nerve fibers tend to be shorter than those from neurons located
within sympathetic ganglia. Also look for small
peripheral nerves
in the wall of this organ.

Find the small
peripheral nerves
located in the wall of this
organ. The small nerves are most easily found at the periphery
of the organ and running near blood vessels. They are generally
surrounded by an intensely stained
perineurium
. The nerves have a wavy appearance
and have many
Schwann
cell nuclei
among the nerve fibers.